Tenerife is the region chosen to host the 2022 WCGC World Final. A fascinating land where some of the world’s most enchanting natural landscapes of volcanic earth and ocean combine with the capacity to host sporting events, outstanding gastronomy and culture. We spoke to David Pérez, CEO of Turismo de Tenerife, about everything that those attending an event like the World Corporate Golf Challenge can expect to find when they arrive on the island.
Why should people visit Tenerife?
Tenerife is a diverse destination that offers travellers a host of experiences. Not just golfers, of course, but all types of visitors. The attractions that make it a benchmark destination range from its heritage, with old towns such as La Orotava, Garachico and La Laguna (UNESCO World Heritage Site), to modern architecture, with iconic structures such as the Tenerife Auditorium. You can also find first-class gastronomy, a wide range of shopping choices, whether fashion, perfumeries or jewellers, with boutiques and stores of the leading brands and a leisure offer with stand-out roof-top bars, beach clubs and a host of varied and original shows. And all of this comes with one of Europe’s most crucial premium accommodation offers.
What are the most exciting events for Tenerife in 2022?
Tenerife is well-known for hosting all leading events and meetings throughout the year, from concerts with renowned national and international artists to sports events, not just golf. This is the case of the Giro d’Italia Ride Like a Pro, which allows participants to feel like genuine racers in the historic Italian cycle race. Or the tests of the Spartan Race, which Tenerife will again host this year. Or the Eurorainbow, hosted in the island’s capital with the participation of some of the winners of past editions of the Eurovision Festival.
Which are Turismo de Tenerife’s most important projects and goals in the next 5 years?
The island is decisively committed to sustainability and digitalisation, which can be seen in its recognition as a Smart Tourist Destination and Biosphere certification. We want to continue making progress along this line. But we are also highly focused on making the island a more attractive destination for travellers looking for a luxury holiday. It is already working on different projects that will continue to position the island as a destination for this segment of visitors.
How has the COVID pandemic affected Tenerife as a tourist destination, and what is the current COVID situation in Tenerife?
Although the pandemic affected us in the same way as the rest of the world, the panorama has fortunately changed considerably for the better. The current situation of COVID-19 on the island is that the pandemic is under control, as in the rest of the Canary Islands and Spain. Wear a face mask, except in particular cases, such as public transport, is no longer necessary. Most restrictions have been lifted for the capacity at events and on-premises, even when closed. So, we can say that we have returned to a situation of near normality, which, in turn, has meant that travellers have returned to Tenerife to enjoy their holidays.
Why is Tenerife an ideal golf holiday destination?
Any golfer that visits Tenerife will feel the beauty, the charm and the challenge of playing golf between volcanic rocks and mountains overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on every shot. Playing golf on any of our fantastic golf courses is a truly exciting experience that can’t be found anywhere in Europe and only in very few places worldwide. In addition to the outstanding scenery, excellent golf designers have designed all the courses, including Seve Ballesteros, the great Spanish golf legend. Optimal golf course maintenance and superb customer service add to a memorable experience that no golfer should miss while in Tenerife.
One thing that nobody should miss when visiting Tenerife?
This is a tough question because there are many elements of the island that a visitor should not miss. If I had to choose one, and just one, perhaps I would opt for the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A unique environment in the world, which has the highest point in Spain, at 3,718 metres above sea level, with a volcanic landscape that transports visitors to another world. Moreover, a stage is ideal for star-gazing, thanks to the excellent conditions of its skies.
